Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 15 April 2024
In a bid to bolster voter participation in the impending General Elections for the sole Parliamentary seat of the House of People on April 19, 2024, Mr. Arjun Sharma, IAS, Returning Officer of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Parliamentary Constituency (ANIPC), convened discussions with the Hoteliers & Restaurants Association in South Andaman District.
Responding to the call for civic engagement, the Association has pledged its support by agreeing to provide discounts ranging from 10% to 20% on food bills at various hotels and restaurants in South Andaman. This initiative will be in effect from the evening of April 19th to April 20th, with customers required to show the Electoral ink mark on their finger as proof of voting.
The participating establishments include:
April 19, 2024 (Poll Day) (15% Discount on Food Only)
– Bay Leaf
– Hotel Abhishek
– Hotel Aparupa Ambience
– Aparupa Sands Marina
– Hotel Mainak
– Diviyum Manor
– Hotel Sri KPN
– J Hotel
– Annapoorna
– Gem Continental
– New Light House Restaurant (10% discount on food)
– Icy Spicy (all outlets, 10% discount on food)
April 20, 2024
– Mansha Hotels (20% discount on food)
Furthermore, the Returning Officer, ANIPC, also engaged with the Taxi Association and Autorickshaw Associations, who have pledged to assist in boosting voter turnout. They will provide free rides from the homes of Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and senior citizens to the polling stations. However, strict adherence to Model Code of Conduct (MCC) norms is emphasised, with directives against engaging in any corrupt practices or electoral offences.
Expressing gratitude, the RO, ANIPC, commended the collaborative efforts of the hospitality industry and transportation sector, underscoring their role in promoting inclusive and participatory elections. This concerted endeavour aims to ensure that every eligible voter exercises their franchise, reaffirming the significance of every voice and vote in the democratic process.